Texas Border Business
McALLEN, Texas – Through tireless support and advocacy for Fine Arts programs, McAllen ISD Superintendent Dr. René Gutiérrez has earned a state award from the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA).
The TMEA Distinguished Administrators Award was presented to Dr. Gutiérrez on May 4, during the McAllen ISD Choral Festival held at McAllen Performing Arts Center.
“Dr. Gutiérrez has been the primary advocate for ensuring Fine Arts remain a core pillar of McAllen ISD,” McAllen ISD Fine Arts Director Debra Loya said. “Dr. Gutiérrez’ vision was also instrumental in the passage of the historic $335 million dollar bond, securing state-of-the-art facilities for our dance, music and visual arts programs for generations to come.”
The bond, which was passed by voters on May 2, includes $35 million for Fine Arts Multi-Purpose Buildings.
McAllen ISD’s Fine Arts programs have become a benchmark for excellence. The district recently secured 44 UIL Sweepstakes awards across its secondary programs. In addition, this spring, the district was named a national Best Community for Music Education by the NAMM (National Association of Music Merchants) Foundation for the 14th consecutive year. That places McAllen ISD in the top seven percent of school districts in the nation.
McAllen ISD offers a comprehensive Fine Arts program that includes award-winning band, choir, orchestra, mariachi, theatre arts, visual arts and dance programs In addition, elementary students are taught by degreed and certified music teachers from kindergarten through 5th grade.
